Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with quite an amount of what Senator Darragh O'Brien said. I would like to delve into the final sentences of the Minister of State's reply. If an appointment is made for seven years, why is it not mentioned that the person concerned could serve for a further seven years, five years or whatever the case may be? It is the case where county managers are concerned. Why is it not spelled out that after seven years, for example, the person can apply for and be employed in the position for a further seven years? It should be spelled out now rather than leaving it for the commission to decide whether the person can apply again at the end of the initial period. There is need for clarification on this matter and I hope the Minister of State will throw further light on it.